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Updated: Dec 11, 2025
Single-stage Dynamic Reanimation of the Smile in Irreversible Facial Paralysis by Free Functional Muscle Transfer
Published on: March 1, 2015
Motor Relearning After Hypoglossal-Facial Nerve Anastomosis
Kelly J Negley1, Alysha Rasool, Patrick J Byrne
1From the Department of Physical Therapy, Marymount University, Arlington, Virginia (KJN); Medstar National Rehabilitation Hospital, Washington, DC (KJN); Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada (AR); and Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Department of Dermatology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland (PJB).
This study details rehabilitation after hypoglossal-facial nerve anastomosis surgery for facial paralysis. It highlights techniques for motor relearning facial expression through tongue movement, aiding functional recovery.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Facial Plastic Surgery
Background:
- Facial paralysis presents significant functional and psychosocial challenges.
- Management strategies for facial paralysis are evolving, incorporating surgical and nonsurgical approaches.
- Hypoglossal-facial nerve anastomosis is a surgical technique for facial reinnervation using tongue movement.
Observation:
- A case report of a 33-year-old woman with unilateral facial paralysis.
- The patient underwent hypoglossal-facial nerve anastomosis.
- A 14-week postoperative rehabilitation program was implemented.
Findings:
- The rehabilitation regimen focused on specific techniques to enhance motor relearning.
- Facial expression was improved through voluntary tongue movements.
- Successful reinnervation and functional recovery were observed.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential of hypoglossal-facial nerve anastomosis in treating facial paralysis.
- Detailed rehabilitation protocols are crucial for optimizing outcomes.
- This approach offers a viable option for restoring facial symmetry and function.
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